6005A vs 6061: which aluminium alloy is better?
Strength, extrudability, anodising and uses of alloys 6005A and 6061, side by side and with the values from the standard.
In a nutshell
- 6005A is stronger: 270 MPa tensile strength against 260 MPa, and 225 against 240 MPa yield strength.
- 6005A extrudes better (4 against 3 out of 5): it allows thinner walls, more complex shapes and a better surface finish.
- 6061 machines better (4 against 3 out of 5).
- Both weld equally well (4 out of 5); as with any heat-treated alloy, the weld zone loses some of its strength.
| Property | 6005A | 6061 |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile strength (Rm) | 270 MPa | 260 MPa |
| Yield strength (Rp0.2) | 225 MPa | 240 MPa |
| Elongation (A) | 8% | 8% |
| Approximate hardness | 85 HB | 95 HB |
| Density | 2.70 g/cm³ | 2.70 g/cm³ |
| Composition | Si 0.50–0.90 · Mg 0.40–0.70 · Mn ≤ 0.50 · Cr ≤ 0.30 | Si 0.40–0.80 · Mg 0.80–1.20 · Cu 0.15–0.40 · Cr 0.04–0.35 |
| Extrudability (1 to 5) | 4 | 3 |
| Decorative anodising (1 to 5) | 3 | 3 |
| Weldability (1 to 5) | 4 | 4 |
| Corrosion resistance (1 to 5) | 4 | 4 |
| Machinability (1 to 5) | 3 | 4 |
Values in T6 temper: minimums from the EN 755-2 standard for thin-walled profiles (they vary with thickness and shape). Approximate hardness. The 1 to 5 ratings compare these alloys with each other.
- Choose 6005ALight structures, demanding tubes and hollow profiles, rails, vehicle bodies, transport and ladders.
- Choose 6061Structural and machined parts, marine, bicycles, brackets, flanges and machine components.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is stronger, 6005A or 6061?
6005A: in T6 temper it has a minimum tensile strength of 270 MPa, against 260 MPa for 6061 (EN 755-2 standard, thin-walled profiles).
What are 6005A and 6061 used for?
6005A: light structures, demanding tubes and hollow profiles, rails, vehicle bodies, transport and ladders. 6061: structural and machined parts, marine, bicycles, brackets, flanges and machine components.
Which one is better for anodising?
Both anodise equally well (3 out of 5).